The Heat Is On

People look at me funny when I tell them I run in this heat. I used to despise running in this weather, but I've learned some tricks along the way to deal with it. Carrying frozen water bottles, pre-run hydration, slowing the pace, and running early or in shade all mitigate sweltering weather.

Experience and preparation are important, but so is attitude. If you think you can do something, you can. There is no try, only do, or so says Yoda. That said, I envision retiring some day, and I won't be spending many July's in Nashville!

On Independence Day in midday 99 degree heat, I ran six miles in hilly but shaded Percy Warner Park. When I hit a big hill in sun, I walked it. No need to prove anything ... I was just enjoying the journey.

This morning, I ran eight miles on my favorite rave run, the Grassland-Moran Road out and back. I ran four alone before meeting up with my friends Jim, Carey, Sammi, Laurie, Ted and others. Several are TNT alums, like me. Jim, a lymphoma survivor still battling complications, is trying to raise $100,000 for his NYC Marathon run this fall. If you know Jim, or even if you don't, I hope you consider clicking and donating. I did today. Jim embodies fight, courage, love and hope. He loved Dori, and she loved him. I was honored to run with him this morning.

Staying with running helps me stay connected to honoring Dori. When I run, I feel better about things. I've blogged about this before, but we're all still healing and healing is easier when there is routine, smart choices, reflection, discussion and prayer. Kathryn and I have had some wonderfully productive discussions the last few weeks about our situation. When stressed, listening and supporting my children can be difficult. Running greatly reduces that stress.

Entering this summer, I was concerned how we'd do, individually and collectively. Summer downtime has its pros and cons, but not having the routine of school can be challenging. Instead, the kids loved camp and have been active since returning, and our summer nanny is doing a good job. Phew.

The forecast calls for rain in a few days, then a break from the heat. The change will be welcome. Until then, I thought a little pop culture from the 80s might lighten up this joint.